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Svetlana v. Genalex KT88 Tubes?

I have a pair of conrad-johnson Premier 8A monoblocks, each with 8 6550 tubes (plus six more small tubes). I have had two blow in the last week, and most are glowing very purple. They are currently Svetlana Winged C tubes. Someone has recommended Genalex KT88 tubes instead. Any opinions?

Thanks,

B.
bkrpdx
bkrpdx OP
18 posts
 
I should probably mention they are new, Russian-made Genalex tubes, not originals.

B.
brf
1,699 posts
 
You should consider the new Tung Sol KT120 tubes.
jtcf's avatar
jtcf
303 posts
 
The Genalex are great sounding tubes and reliable.
elevick
2,439 posts
 
I never have power tubes "blow" unless something else is wrong. You should get this check out before any new tubes are added. It might just be your bias but who knows...
viridian's avatar
viridian
4,184 posts
 
The Genelex reissues have had reliability issues, which may, or may not, be cured. I had one of my quad short out and there is plenty of other anecdotal reports about these on the Asylum.

The SED winged C seems to be the most reliable of the 6550/KT88 family in current issue, and the KT120, mentioned above by Brf has had great reports, though it pulls a bit of extra current and you should check with cj to make sure that it is appropriate for you amp.
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